Aquarium of the Pacific

Founded in 1998, the Aquarium of the Pacific is the largest aquarium in Southern California and the fourth most-attended in the U.S. We display more than 11,000 animals in over 50 exhibits representing the Pacific Ocean’s diversity. We welcome over 1.6 million visitors each year.

Our 501(c)3 non-profit organization aims to instill in people respect, stewardship, and a sense of wonder for the Pacific Ocean, its ecosystems, and inhabitants. We hope to establish an aquarium dedicated to the conservation and creation of “Natural Capital” through fostering “Social Capital”. Interaction between and among individuals helps conserve nature and its services. We make this possible through educational programs, which include multimedia experiences, lectures, and hands-on activities for the young and old alike.